Poetry Explorer


Classic and Contemporary Poetry


FOR FEAR by CHARLOTTE PERKINS STETSON GILMAN

Poet Analysis

First Line: FOR FEAR OF PROWLING BEASTS AT NIGHT
Last Line: GARDEN AND HOME.
Subject(s): ELECTIONS; FEAR; WOMEN'S RIGHTS; VOTING; VOTERS; SUFFRAGE; FEMINISM;

For fear of prowling beasts at night
They blocked the cave;
Women and children hid from sight,
Men scarce more brave.

For fear of warrior's sword and spear
They barred the gate;
Women and children lived in fear,
Men lived in hate.



For fear of criminals today
We lock the door;
Women and children still to stay
Hid evermore.



Come out! Ye need no longer hide!
What fear you now?
No wolf or lion waits outside-
Only a cow.



Come out! The world approaches peace,
War nears its end;
No warrior watches your release-
Only a friend.



Come out! The night of crime has fled-
Day is begun;
Here is no criminal to dread-
Only your son.



The world, half yours, demands your care,
Waken and come!
Make it a woman's world; safe, fair,
Garden and home.




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